Phosphorus

What is it?

Phosphorus is an essential mineral that works with calcium and vitamin D. It is mainly combined with oxygen to form phosphate which is needed for bone structure, teeth, muscle tissue, energy production, lactic acid control and the formation of phospholipids.

Table of Contents

Function	How it helps
Energy metabolism	Phosphorus is needed for the metabolism of carbohydrates, fats and proteins into energy. It is also needed for the activation of B vitamins, several of which are critical to cellular metabolism and energy release from foods.
Cell membrane structure	Phosphorus binds to phospholipids which form a major part of cell membranes and are needed for the transport of nutrients into the cells.
Bone health	When phosphorus and calcium bind to one another, calcium phosphate is formed, which maintains the hardness, strength and structural integrity of skeletal tissue.

What is it used for?
Proper cellular function	Phospholipid formation
Optimising metabolism	Transport of nutrients into cells.
Proper calcium balance	Cellular integrity

Best food sources
Meat	Poultry	Fish
Eggs	Dairy products	Nuts and seeds
Soybeans	Whole grains	Beans
and in all foods

Deficiency Symptoms – extremely unlikely
Physical fatigue	Mental fatigue	Neurological dysfunction
Loss of appetite	Depression	Rickets

Supplementation dosage range

Supplementation is not required as phosphorus is found in all foods and is normally taken in excess, compared to calcium intake.

Other information

Phosphoric acid is used as an additive in fizzy drinks and various processed foods, contributing to excessive intake levels.

Cautions

Excessive phosphorus intake can adversely affect calcium balance and utilization, thereby increasing the risk of developing calcium deficiency signs and symptoms.
Excessive phosphorus intake over an extended period may lead to a reduction in bone density and possibly increase one’s risk of developing osteoporosis.

Lois

I’m passionate about healthy living and sharing my message with as many people as possible. It was this passion that drove me to start the Health and Wellbeing News. I believe that good health in body, mind and spirit is vital if we are to achieve our highest potential as human beings. Health and Wellbeing News brings together all that I’ve learned in the past 20 years and draws upon the knowledge of renowned experts from all round the world, to help you become the healthiest and happiest version of you.

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